Blog

How to Fix Avast Firewall Blocking Network Share in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Avast Firewall can sometimes block network sharing on Windows 11, causing issues when you try to access files or folders from other devices on your network. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on shared resources for work or personal use.

Fortunately, fixing this problem is usually straightforward. By adjusting a few settings in Avast and Windows, you can restore normal network sharing functionality.

This guide will walk you through each step carefully, ensuring even beginners can follow along without confusion.

Let’s get started and make sure your network share works smoothly again.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before diving into the fix, it’s important to check a couple of things to avoid unnecessary troubleshooting:

  • Ensure your devices are connected to the same network: Network sharing only works if all devices are on the same local network or Wi-Fi.
  • Verify Windows network profile is set to Private: Public profiles restrict sharing for security, so your network should be Private.
  • Confirm that file and printer sharing is enabled in Windows: This setting must be turned on for sharing to function.
  • Make sure Avast is fully updated: Running the latest version can prevent bugs and compatibility issues.

Step 1: Allow Network Sharing Through Avast Firewall

The Avast Firewall might be blocking the network share because it treats it as an unknown or unsafe connection. To fix this, you need to explicitly allow file and printer sharing through Avast.

  1. Open the Avast user interface by double-clicking the Avast icon in the system tray or searching for Avast in the Start menu.
  2. Click on Menu in the top right corner, then select Settings.
  3. Navigate to the Protection tab, then click on Firewall.
  4. Scroll down and click on Rules or Application Rules.
  5. Look for entries related to Windows File Sharing or apps like svchost.exe and ensure they are set to Allow.
  6. If you don’t see these rules, click Add and manually add an exception for svchost.exe located in C:WindowsSystem32.
  7. Make sure the rule allows both incoming and outgoing connections on the local network.
  8. Save your changes and exit Avast settings.

Why this is important: Avast Firewall blocks unknown traffic by default. Explicitly allowing file sharing protocols ensures your computer recognizes and trusts network sharing connections.

Step 2: Check Windows Network Profile and Sharing Settings

Windows 11’s network profile controls how your PC interacts with other devices. Setting it to Private enables network discovery and sharing.

  1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
  2. Go to Network & Internet, then click on Wi-Fi (or Ethernet if you’re using a wired connection).
  3. Click the name of your connected network.
  4. Under Network profile type, select Private.
  5. Next, open Control Panel by searching for it in the Start menu.
  6. Go to Network and Sharing Center > Change advanced sharing settings.
  7. Expand the current profile (Private), and make sure these settings are turned on:
    • Turn on network discovery
    • Turn on file and printer sharing
  8. Click Save changes.

Why this is important: If the network profile is set to Public, Windows restricts sharing to protect your PC. Enabling Private profile and sharing options allows devices on your network to communicate properly.

Step 3: Temporarily Disable Avast Firewall to Test

If you’re still having trouble, try temporarily turning off Avast Firewall to see if it’s definitely the cause.

  1. Open Avast and go to Protection > Firewall.
  2. Click on the toggle to disable the firewall.
  3. Try accessing the network share from another device.
  4. If the share works now, Avast Firewall settings are blocking it and you should review your rules.
  5. Remember to re-enable the firewall after testing for your security.

Note: Disabling your firewall leaves your PC vulnerable. Only do this briefly for testing purposes.

Step 4: Add Network Share as a Trusted Network in Avast

Adding your local network as a trusted zone in Avast can help avoid unnecessary blocks.

  1. In Avast, go to Menu > Settings > Protection > Firewall.
  2. Click on Settings or Network (depending on Avast version).
  3. Find the section for Trusted Networks.
  4. Click Add Network and enter your local network range (e.g., 192.168.1.0/24 or similar depending on your router).
  5. Save the changes.

Why this helps: Marking your home or office network as trusted tells Avast to relax firewall restrictions on devices within that network.

Alternative Method: Use Windows Defender Firewall Instead

If Avast Firewall continues to interfere, you can consider disabling Avast Firewall and using the built-in Windows Defender Firewall instead. Windows Firewall integrates well with Windows sharing features and is less likely to cause conflicts.

To disable Avast Firewall:

  1. Open Avast > Protection > Firewall.
  2. Toggle off the firewall.

To enable Windows Defender Firewall:

  1. Open Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protection.
  2. Select your network profile and make sure the firewall is turned on.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does Avast block network sharing by default?

Avast Firewall blocks unknown or potentially unsafe network traffic to protect your PC from unauthorized access. Since network sharing involves allowing other devices to connect to your computer, Avast treats it cautiously until you explicitly allow it.

Can I add specific folders to Avast exceptions?

Avast firewall works at the network and application level, so you cannot add individual folders as exceptions. Instead, you allow apps or protocols that manage sharing, like svchost.exe or specific services.

Is it safe to disable Avast Firewall temporarily?

Yes, but only for a short time. Disabling the firewall removes an important layer of protection, so only do this for troubleshooting and turn it back on as soon as possible.

How do I find my local network IP range?

You can find it by opening Command Prompt and typing ipconfig. Look for your IPv4 address and subnet mask. For example, if your IP is 192.168.1.105 and subnet mask is 255.255.255.0, your network range is 192.168.1.0/24.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the problem, consider the following options:

  • Check for Avast updates: Bugs and issues can be resolved in newer versions.
  • Reset Avast settings to default: Sometimes custom rules cause conflicts.
  • Contact Avast Support: Visit https://support.avast.com for help.
  • Use Windows Troubleshooter: Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, then run the Network Adapter and Incoming Connections troubleshooters.
  • Consider switching to a different antivirus with less aggressive firewall rules.

Conclusion

Avast Firewall blocking network share on Windows 11 is a common issue that can be fixed by allowing sharing protocols through Avast, setting your Windows network profile to Private, and adjusting sharing settings. Testing by temporarily disabling Avast Firewall helps identify if Avast is the cause.

Adding your local network as a trusted zone and ensuring proper firewall rules are in place usually resolves the problem. If Avast continues to interfere, using Windows Defender Firewall is a reliable alternative.

Following these detailed steps will help you regain smooth file sharing across your devices without compromising security.

Leave a Reply